HISTORICAL DRAMA, 



ARNOLD 



THE 



TRAITOR, 



FI'VE ^OTS. 



EDGAR HARL KELLAR 



PRICE 25 CENTS. 



HISTORICAL DRAMA. 



ARNOLD 



THK= 



TRAITOR, 



IFI-VZEJ A-CTS, 



EDGAR HARL KELLAR 

iAN 9 !B90 




1. WVK ENCE, KANSAS . 
JOIKNAI, STKAM PRINTTNf. HOUSK. 

iSSg. 






r 



COPYRIGHT 1889 BY E. H KELLAR. 



TA^F96-00c4t3 



ARNOLD THE TRAIT0R, 



DRAMATIS PERSONS. 



General George Washington American Com. in Chief. 

" Horatio Gates American (ieneral. 

Hamilton 

Lafayette French 

Benedict Arnold The Traitor. 

Adjutant-General Wilkinson Aid to Gates. 

H. B. Livingston " Arnold. 

.Tohn Andre British Aid to Clinton. 

Major Franks Of Arnold's Staff. 

Sir Henry Clinton British Com. in Chief. 

General Burgoyne British General. 

John Paulding Capturer of Andre. 

Joshua Smith Andre's Guide. 

Edward Shippen Arnold's Father-in-Law. 

Lord Hawke Arnold's Second in Duel. 

Lord Lauderdale Arnold's Offender. 

Margeret Shippen Afterward's Arnold's AVife. 

Milda Sancroft English Adventuress. 

Mr. Charles Fox Lauderdale's Second. 

Oflicers, Soldiers, ('itizens, Messengers, Physician, Preacher. 
Servants, Ladies and Gentlemen, Children, Etc. 



The Stage Plot. 



-A.OT X. 
BEMIS HEIGHTS, NEAR SARATOGA, NEW YORK. 
Scene 1. A camp scene in 2. 

Full stage, stationary trees, rocks, and rock elevation 



SCENE z. 

atL. 

Scene 3, 



Scene 1. 
Scene 2. 
Scene 3. 



Scene 1. 
Scene 2. 



Same as in scene 1. 

^OT II. 
AT AND NEAR PHILADELPHIA, PENN. 
Drawing room in 2. 
Full stage, open tent, winter. 
Same as in scene 1. 

J^CT III. 
PHILADELPHIA, PENN. 
Full stage, banquet hall. ])anquet table, chairs, etc. 
A parlor in 2. 



Scene 3. Full stage, alcove arranged, large mirror. 

ON THE HUDSON, NEAR STONY POINT. 
Scene 1. Full stage, rocks, hut up L. on the river. 
Scene 2. A wood in 2. 

Scene 3. Full stage, veranda of house, view of mountains 
through window. 

AT AND NEAR LONDON, ENGLAND. 
Full stage, Westminister Abby, tombs, effigies, chapel 



Scene 1. 
L. C. 

Scene 2. 
Scene 3. 



A wood in 2. 

Full stage. l)ed with curtains L. C, table, chairs, etc. 



plain charabei 



COSTUMES. 



American ollicers and British officers and soldiers wear uniform 
respectively, of tlieir rank and time (Revolutionary warj. I'auld- 
ing has old IJritish privates' dress. Van AVert and Williams, 
American faruiers garb. Civilians wear dress of the time. Dress 
suits at the banquet. Preacher wears church of England dress of 
that dav, etc. 



PROPERTIES. 

ACT I. — Scene 1.. American swords and equipage. 

2. American and English arms, black horse, spy 

glass, etc. 
;i Stretcher, surgeons instruments, bandages, 
letter, etc. 
ACT II. -Scene 1. No properties e.special. 

''■ Table, camp chairs, rocker, crutches, docu- 
ments, etc. 
•^. T'hotograph, cane, settee, tableaux fixtures. 
ACT III— Scp:ne 1. Long table, dishes, gla.^^s, fruit, large mirrors. 
2. No special properties. 
8. Lounge, large mirror, etc. 
ACT IY-Scene L Boat, documents, etc. 

" " 2. Horse, documents, cloak, watch, etc. 

•i Table, chairs, documents, letters, lounge, 
pistol. 
.\.CT v.— Scene I. Tombs, cane, keys, etc. 

2. Pistols and cases, surgeons case, and letter. 
•'5. \''alise, epaulettes, sword knots, old uniforms, 
chairs, table, medicines, etc., tableaux 
fixtures. 
And all other properties that mny suggest themselves to enhance 
the working of the play and make it complete. 



A SYNOPSIS OF THE DRAMA^ 

The writer of this play pre-supposes that the reader or spectator 
has no inconsiderable acquaintance with the history of the ITnited 
States, and especially that portion which comprehends the genesis 
of the Union— the revolutionary period. From this knowledge 
you may bridge over any gaps that discover themselves in the 
course of the drama. 

After the first battle of Bemis Heights, which occurred on Sept. 
lyth, 1777, Generals Arnold and (Jates meet. Arnold appears an 
impatient but popular officer, not so dates. Gates displays a little 
of the bigotry that disgusts Arnold, and that finally disgraces 
himself. Arnold shows his "dutch " bravery and almost justifiable 
insubordination in the second battle of Bemis Heights, on Oct. 7th, 
1777. Arnold merits and obtains the affection and confidence of 
Washington, but is really ill treated by the American congress, 
while Gates, whose bigotry and jealousy disgusts "Washington, is 
praised and promoted by congress. 

,\rnold relieved from active military services by reason of a 
wound received at Saratoga, is appointed military governor of 
Pennsylvania. And here he marries the daughter of a pronounced 
Tory, Margaret Shippen, daughter of Edward Shippen. At Phila- 



(lelphiu he gives those extravagant eutertaintneuts to the friends 
of America, or to the sympathizers of England indifferently. 
Now these things put him in bad oder, and he is hastily and im- 
prudently courtmartialed. Although not found guilty as alleged 
in the indictment, he is nevertheless sentenced to be reprimanded 
by Gen. Washington. Meanwhile letters bearing the spirit of 
treason are received by him from some English sympathizers in 
America and from the celebrated English commissioners. 

A certain young Englisli adventuress, who has some way in- 
gratiated herself into Sir Henry Clinton's contidence and Mr. Ship- 
pen's family, succeeds in exciting more or less treason in Arnold's 
mind, and in establishing communications l)etween him and 
Clinton. 

Upon Arnold's urgent request,'he is placed in command at West 
Point, the Gibraltar of America. He betrays his trust to Andre, 
Clinton's adjutant-general. Andre is captured on his way 
down to New York, and tlie aims of treason frustrated. Arnold 
in the morning of the day he expects the British to take possession 
of West Point, isin his home on the Hudson opposite the fort, while 
officers of Washington's staff are at breakfast and Washington 
momentarily expected, here Arnold is suddenly notified of Andres' 
capture; he escapes, but not a moment too soon for in less than 
three minutes, W ashington himself is upon the scene and discovers 
his treason, w^hile Mrs. Arnold is swept into the very vortex of 
insanity by her husband's pertidty. 

These incidents are dramatized exactly as history relates them 
and make one of the most intensely interesting scenes that has 
ever been portrayed upon the stage. 

Arnold and wife go to England to live. Here he is held in a 
contempt by the English that is but a little removed from that in 
which his own countrymen, the Americans, held him. He fails in 
every business undertaking. The English, in the person of the 
King, will not employ him as an army officer. In society he Is 
eschewed, even insulted. He is compelled to defend his honor by 
engaging in a duel, and finally, in poverty, he dies the desperate 
death of a man who realized the enormity of his crime, for he 
sought to betray unto death the birth of the best government 
under the sun. 

Let us, because of his great repentance, do as we have imagined 
Washington to do, pity and forgive the man but condemn and 
abhor the deed. That a lesson of justice and of love may be 
taught is within the purpose of the playwright. 



ACT I. 
Scene 1. — A camp scene in 2. 
\ Enter Gen. Gates. Wilkinson and j other ojfieers jR. i E . | 

Gates. — Tell me, Wilkinson, were there other troops 
besides Poor's Brigade. Morgan's Riflemen and Dear- 
born's Infantr}' engaged yesterday ? 

Wilk. — Those were all, just the left division under 
Arnold, except Col. Marshall's regiment of the centre. 

Gates. — We should never have engaged the enem}^ at 
all. I was over entreated bv x\rnold : the impeteous fel- 
low wants to assume command of the entire army. 

With. — S^Lookina; of L. r E. | Here comes General 
Arnold with Morgan, Poor, Dearborn and Livingston. 

Gates. — Well, I shall talk verv plainly to him. 
\ Music as Arnold., Eivingston. etc. enter L. i E. j 

Gates. — I suppose \Goi}ii> across to J^. as Arnold i^'oes 
to R. I Arnold, that you are ready quieth' to serve under 
me ? 

Arnold. — I am ready to sa}' to you, Horatio Gates, as 
these gentlemen, and all the other officers in the army 
already know, that had I been seconded by my com- 
mander when my entire division was engaged, had reen- 
forcements from the centre, which I begged of you, been 
permitted to assist, instead of an indecisive battle, the 
English would have had no camp to have fallen back to. 

Gates. — I would advise a little more respectful language, 
a little less insinuation. It would be w^ell for you to 
remember that I am your superior officer, having been 
appointed by the American Congress to the command of 
this army. 

Arnold.— -^y the American Congress, but not b}' him 
who should have made the appointment — I mean Wash- 
ington! Yes, sir, you are my superior officer: but let me 
?av, sir, that truth and justice constitute n higher tribunal 



ARNOLD THE TRAITOR. 



than military law or the American Congress. And I pre- 
dict that the American people will soon denounce the 
injustice of Congress in removing Gen. Schu3'ler, and 
giving his command to one whose pride is higher than 
Olympus. And though lUugoyne yet surrender and 
Gales' name be heralded o\'er the Colonies as America's 
delix'crer. mark in}' words. Horatio Gates, the honor and 
valor of Gen. Phillip Schuyler will vet be vindicated and 
^ our jealousy and vanity exposed. 

Gafes. -By heavens. Arnold, you must be tremend- 
ouslv sore or crazy to rant like this. You could sweep 
the iVIohawk clean, scatter St. Leger and relie\'e Steinvvax, 
but we have more than Indian and Canadian half-breeds 
to tight here. You must be wild. 

. \nioId. — Then, sir, the entire arm\- is wild and craz}'. 
I hav^e more to say. We think very little of that soldier 
and General who holds back two-thirds of his army on 
the pretense of guarding the camp, keeps two-thirds of 
his arm\- in idleness in a contest so hot and so important 
as \esterday"s was. and wh} did }Ou do this ''! I know 
wh}', for fear of a possible rival. Yes further, that Gen- 
eral is contemptible 1 Gatc<, half drazvs his sword, Ar- 
nold grasps his ] that General is contemptible who fails 
of victory through jealous}' of a fellow soldier. 

Gales. — \ col/trolling- himself. ] Arnold, I anticipated no 
such oulburst from you. 1 should not have endured your 
vile insinuations and vituperation a half second: this sword 
would be searching for 3'our heart's blood, had I loved 
the Colonies less or cared more for \o\x\- opinion. 

Arnold. — What ? [agitated.] 

Gates. — Yes, sir. Remain at ease till I am through. 
We expect Gen. Lincoln to-morrow, and can then doubt- 
less dispense with your commanding services, [starts off 
I^., to Wilk.] Come, Adjutant. 

Arnold. — Gates, one word. 



ARNOLD THE TRAITOR. 



Gates. — ^No, not one. I have witnessed enough insub- 
ordination from you sir. Come! 

\ Exeunt Gates and Wilk., L. i E.\ 
.4r;/c/<:/.-»- Gentlemen, you know how affairs stood 
yesterday, and a ranker injustice was never committed. 
Washington shall hear of this, for I shall retire from the 
army and join him. [ Walking do7vn R. | 

Officer. — Gen. Arnold you must not. There is not an 
officer in ihe army but understands that had it not been 
for you Burgovne would have marched into Albany at 
this Autumnal equinox, a victor. Gates knows better 
than to dismiss you. 

Arn. — I see no other way. 

Off. — But this is a critical time. Gates has no right, 
whatever, to the command. Burgoyne will soon again 
give battle: the fate of the nation depends upon the 
result. 

A7'n. — I shall consider the matter. [ Exit R. i E. j 
Livingston. — ^ Arnold is a little too quick tempered and 
outspoken, but he is in the right and we must retain him. 
He is the fighting general. Come, I propose we draw up 
a petition to have him remain. 

Off. — Aye! all the officers will sign it, and we will let 
Gates know how popular Arnold is. 

Living. — -Good, \going out R. i E. \ he must remain. 
\ Exeunt O nines R. i E. Music. ^ 

END OF FIRST SCENE. 



Scene 2.— Second battle of Beinis Heights. Full .stage. Sta- 
tionary trees, rock elevation up L. 

\^Discovers Gen. Burgoyne and staff on elevation. ] 

Burg. — Gentlemen, we are forced to action. It is 

impossible for re-enforcements and supplies from New 



lO ARNOLD Tllli TRAITOK. 



York to reach us. We cannot retreat, the enemy have 
hemmed us in completely. We must hazard another 
battle. Let every man do his duty; defeat now 
will be the loss of the war and ignominy. Powell, 
you station your brigade here, the woods will screen you 
somewhat, so if the right breaks you may check them, 
then fall back behind the breastworks, which will prove 
the impenetrable wall to the rebels. Come! 
[ Btirgoync and sonic officers exeunt L. U. E. Music. ] 

Officer.- — | occupies xuith soldiers the elevation, with ^lass 
i>i hand loo/xs off R. | The action begins on our right. 
\ Sound of hatth heard. ^^ Our right is broken. They 
are collecting their forces to bear down on us here. | To 
Aid. I Command the artiller}' to open Hre. \Aid hastily 
exit, British soldiers come rushino in R. j and R. U. E. | 
Halt, form line of battle! \ Soldiers obey. Artillery roars 
L. outside. I Who is that demon on the black horse? 
Attention! Take aim! Ready! Fire! [British fire. 
Shouts aiui shots. Americans rush on. Arnold on black 
horse. Music., battle piece. British break. | 

Arnold. — Come on ! Drive them back ! Up the 
heights! Take their cannon. 

I E xeunt fighting., follozuing British. Softer music. A 

Gates. — \ entering R. i E. xvith Will:., Armstrong and 
staff.\ Arnold in the fight! He has no command. Such 
insubordination is intolerable. You, Armstrong, overtake 
him and order him back to his quarters. | Arnistrong 
exit I^. U. E. Shots and shouts, battle rages without at 
L. again. Gates and staff exeunt R. i E. Enter Arnold 
R. U. E. with forces.~\ 

Arnold. — The Massachusetts boys to the front! We 
must take that redoubt. Down with British tyranny. 
\]Music, Charge. Exeunt L. U. E. | 



ARNOLD THE TRAITOR. 



Armstrong. — | Enters R. U. E.\ Where is General 
Gates! it is impossible to reach Arnold, he is all over the 
field at once, and he carries victory wherever he goes. 
\Loud shovds of victory outside L. Enter Americans 
carrying Arnold., zuho is wounded. Music. Triumph.] 

Am. — Boys, we did it. even if I were without a com- 
mand. 

Armstrong. — \_advancing'\ Arnold, Gen. Gates com- 
mands you back to your quarters — 

Omnes.S\\a.m&\ shame! 

Arnold. — Hold! Yes, take me back. I am ready to 
go, for victory is ours. Take me to my quarters. 
lExennt R. 3 E. Music] 

END OF SECOND SCENE. 



Scene ;1— A camp view in 2, same as in first scen^. 

[Enter R. i E. Officers, Doctor, Arnold carried on 
stretcher. Soft music. Stretcher f laced 6'.] 

Am. — Well, Doctor, make an examination and tell us 
what it is. 

Dr. — [Examining luound'] I judge it to be a compound 
fracture of the thigh. [Prefaring] I will set it and make 
you as comfortable as possible. [Proceed to do so.] 

Living. — Well, Gen. Burgoyne's surrender is only a 
question of time, the victory is complete. 

Am. — I wonder what Washington will think of the 
action ? 

Dr. — You were injured in this leg at the battle of 
Quebec, were you not? 

Am. — Yes, sir. There [foi)iting] you can see the scar. 

Dr. — We will try to save the leg, but it is in a preca- 
rious condition. [Arisijig] For the time being it is all 
right. I will be in again in the course of four or tive 



ARNOLD THE TRAITOR. 



hours. \Exciint Dr. and two attendants. Dr. turning at 
R. I E.'\ You must not excite yourself, general, if you 
want the leg to get along nicely. 

/lr«— All right, Dr. ^Dr. exit K. i E.-\ Yes, \to 
Livingston'] Burgoyne must surrender. 

Messenger. — [Entering J., i Ei] I have a letter for 
Gen. Arnold from headquarters. 

Am. — You mean Washington? 

Mess. — Yes, sir. Are you the general? 

Am. — I am, but hand the letter to that gentleman. 
[Pointing to Living. ~\ Livingston you read it. 

Mess. — [Complying'] I may go now^, sir? 

^4r//.— Yes, if I want vou I will let you know. [E.rit 
Mess. L. rE.] 

L it 'ino . — -Reads note. ] 

H'dq'rts American Army, ( 
PoTTSGROVE, Pa., Sept. 27, — 77. \ 
Maj. Gen. Arnold., Saratoga., N. Y. : 

My Dear Gen. — We have abandoned Philadelphia to 
prevent the British from seizing our ammunition and 
stores at Reading. Howe crossed the Schuylkill the 
23d, near Norristown, and reached Philadelphia the 26th. 
Congress fled to Lancaster, where it is at this writing. 

You see our position. We will move on the British as 
soon as possible. But in the meantime all eyes are upon 
Burgoyne's army. He is the hope of the British. Arnold. 
Congress acted unjustly and without consulting me in 
removing Schuyler and — 

Am.— [Breaking /«] I knew it. I told you so. 

Living. — [Continuing"] removing Schuyler and giving 
Gates control. I trust it will not end disastrously, how- 
e\er. News has just reached me of your struggle of the 
19th. You did nobly, Arnold, and saved us an inglorious 



ARNOLD THE TRAITOR. 



defeat. I cannot understand Gates. I know he is ambi- 
tious. He never reported the action of the 19th to me at 
all, but reported direct to Congress. Would he ignore 
me? 

But be patient, Arnold, and have no open rupture with 
Gates. I have written him for an explanation. When 
Burgoyne is next engaged he must be defeated. I hear 
that he boasts that he will dine in Albany by Oct. 20th. 
Clinton, from New York, will try, in the meantime, to 
furnish him supplies and re-enforcements. God help you 
to defeat their boasting scheme. Console Gen. Schuyler 
and be patient; this is a critical period in our struggle. 
With Burgoyne captured our freedom is secured. 
Yours for American Independence, 

Geo. Washington. 

Am. — Heaven bless George Washington, the embodi- 
ment of magnanimit}' and honor. What cares are his : what 
struggles and what triujnphsl The intregues of a jealous 
varlet he seeks to explain away. When rank injustice is 
done he forgives and sets himself to heal the wounds. 
Had I such virtue. \_AIcd//a/h'c/y'] I am not jealous of 
Gates, but how unjust he is; and Congress, Congress! 
Congress places Gates over me. Why? Has Gates 
served longer or better? Has he a broader brain? Is he 
more valorous? Answer Ticonderoga, Champlain. 
Quebec, Saratoga, or let our march through the Maine 
woods reply. Then why is Gates placed over me? Why.-' 
Washington and Schuyler — Livingston, you and I know 
why. Simply this, friends in Congress. An open rupture 
between Gates and 1? Oh no, no. What will Washing- 
ton say when he hears of to-da^-'s work? But what is 
to-day's work? Will Gates court-martial and discipline 
me? 



14 ARNOLD THE TRAITOR. 



Living. — He dare not, sir. You won the battle. You 
are too popular with the soldiers for Gates to say one 
word against you. 

\ShoHts heard zvilhoitl /?.] 

Am. — ^ To officer. '\ Go hnd what that shouting means. 

Off. — [Going- to L. ^ E.~\ I can't tell sir, but the gen- 
eralcomes this way, I think. 

Am. — Who, Gates? 

Of. — Yes, sir. 

Am. — We will soon find out from the lips of the 
valient general himself. 

[Music. Enter Gates, Wilk. and others L. 2 E.'\ 

Gates. — Gen. Arnold I have good news to relate. 
Burgoyne has surrendered, surrendered his entire army, 
eight thousand men prisoners of war, and we are put into 
possession of a fine train of brass artiller}^, four thousand 
muskets and a vast amount of ammunition. America's 
hopes were centered in my army, America's fears in 
Burgoyne's, and now pardon me this elation. Fears 
dissipated, Hopes realized, note the transition. Tears 
into Transport. Gloom into Glory! The shouting you 
heard just now was occasioned \)y Burgoyne giving me 
his sword. That shout of victory with what an electric 
thrill it will roll over the land! 'Twill echo from the 
farms to the work-shops, from the marts of commerce to 
the halls of legislature. The result? Toryism abolished, 
bills of Congress rise 50 per cent, in value. The militia 
flocking tg our standard. The result? the great patriotic 
heart of America beats with wild enthusiasm of victory! 
1 must dispatch the news to Congress at once. [To 
Wilk^ Col. Wilkinson you may have the distinction of 
bearing this all important message to Congress. 



ARNOLD THE TRAITOR. 1 5 

Am. — I would suggest, Gen. Gates, that martial law 
demands that our commander-in-chief, Washington, should 
tirst be apprised of this, and then the matter of laying it 
before Congress is in his hands. 

Gates. — \_Goiiio- uff R. i E.'\ We will waive that form- 
ality now. \To staffs Come. 

Am. — \^Aside\ Again ignored. Can Washington endure 
it a second time? 

{^Exciinl Gates aint stajf' R. i E.'\ 

.Am. — \Mitsic. Raisiiio on cllnnv and sitting wp.'X Let 
me see some of our worthy men. x\ notable victory has 
been won. \^Enter R. and L. officers and soldiers.'] Listen 
my countrymen. Morgan you wrre a carpenter. Poor 
you were a farmer, I was an apothecary and book-seller. 
You all were farmers, merchants or tradesmen. We 
were not warriors, nor shall America be a nation of 
professional warriors. If this victory be the crowning 
one and proclaim us free from England's oppression, 
what will be our glory? You know . To return untram- 
meled to our various industries and the quiet wa3'S of 
peace. War! War crazes a nation. What base intre- 
gues of ambitious warriors, witness all history. [^Music. 
Enter Gates R. 2 E. unnoticed.'] Already in our own 
brief da}' we see the victory laboriously planned by one, 
yaliently executed by another, is most gloriously claimed 
by a third! Upon the sweat and blood of honest men 
this later person, base knave that he is, reaches the 
Gloria Mundi! Out! Out upon such an one, and though 
the majestic heights of the Hudson be the scene, and 
to-day the time, and a general the person, and Gates be 
his name. Condemn it with your hisses! 

Gates. — Music. Rushing dozon C. and draioing szvord.] 
What do you mean by that, sir? 



l6 ARNOLD THE TRAITOR. 

Am. — Literally and emphatically what I say. Now 
coward, strike a wounded man ! 

[I?cd liohi. Tableau:] 
Curtain. 

KND OI' I'IRST ACT. 



ACT 2. 

ScKXE 1.— (Eight mouths supposed to have elapsed since last 
act.) A parlor in 2. Chairs at extreme L. Center door in parlor. 

[^Discover. SIi/'ppcii and Clinton seated at /,.] 

Clinton. — [TP/.s/V/i^".] Yes, Mr. Shippen, France on 
Feb. 6th, formed an alliance with what are called the 
Confederated States of North America. France was 
moved to this action bv the intelligence of Burgoyne's 
surrender. Four large frigates, under Count D'Estaing, 
were dispatched from France to blockade our fleet in the 
Delaware. We are commanded to concentrate our 
forces at New York, and by the i8th of June we shall 
leave Philadelphia. 

Ship. — Well, Sir Henry. I am really sorry for this turn 
of events. Lord Howe, before you succeeded him, 
informed me substantially of these facts. One thing 
raises the hopes of us loyalists. 

Clin. — -And what is that? 

S/iip.- — That so able a soldier as Sir Henry Clinton 
should be placed in command as GeneraHssimo of the 
English armies. 

Clin. — I thank you; and now, Mr. Shippen, 1 want to 
see for a moment your guest Miss Milda Sancroft, a little 
lovalist every inch of her. 



ARNOLD THE TRAITOR. I 7 

^V///);>.^Certainly, I will call her. [^Exii R. i E.'] 

Clin. — It seems a great deal is expected from me. I 
trust that the hopes of old England and these true hearted 
loyalists ma}^ be realized. The Americans occupy as 
soon as we evacuate. How shrewd this Miss Sancroft is. 
What better person th^n she, with her social charms to 
detect and report the rebels' plots. Can I enlist her? 
[Enter Milda R. i E .'] Miss Sancroft. [Shakes /latids.] 

Milda. — Sir Henry, Mr. Shippen informs me that you 
expect to leave Philadelphia? 

CIi)i. — We do, and for that reason I wish to speak to 
you. Your loyalty impressed me at once. We love old 
England? 

Milda. — We do. 

Clin. — And we will do all we can to see her put down 
this rebellion? 

Milda.— Wq will. 

Clin. — Airs fair in war.'' 

Milda. — It is so considered. 

Clin. — And you can help me? 

Milda. — I can. I divine your intent and I have thought 
of it, and for old England's sake — and your's, you may 
command me — what would you have me do? Have 
their generals fall in love with me and then poison them? 

Clin. — Oh, no! not so bad as that. Just do what you 
can. 

Servant. — \Enter eenter door7\ Scuse me, but one of 
dese here "aids" is inquirin' for Mister Clinton. \Exit 
center door.'] 

Clin. — And I am wanted. Good bye, Miss Sancroft, 
Mr. Shippen has my address. Remember, for old Eng- 
land's sake. [^Exit eenter door.] 

Milda. — Yes, for old England's sake. [Exit R. i E.] 

END OF SCENE FIRST. 



1 8 ARNOLD THE TRAITOR. 



Scene 2— Full stage. " Valley Forge." Winter. Tenf, camp" 
lire, table, cliairs, easy-chair, etc. 

Washington. — [^Discovered sealed at table up Z.] These 
documents surprise and pain me. God knows personal 
ambition is not the spring of my action. But such things 
make me tired and sick of public life. That certain 
honorable members of Congress and certain high officers 
of the army should scheme to deprive me of my position 
by such base intrigues. Gates and Lee want the com- 
mand. At any rate. Gates is fully identified with the 
clandestine movement. And this Irishman, General 
Conway, has permitted himself to be made a tool of. 
Did I seek the position I occupy? Did I? Why should 
these men seek to depose me with such lies.^ Have I not 
dealt justly with them? Do I not love them? Indeed, 
how sharper than a serpent's tooth is this ingratitude.' 
Are not the British and this hard winter at V^alley Forge 
enough to fight, but our friends must turn traitor? 

Officer. — [Enter R. j £.'] General Benedict Arnold 
would speak with you, sir. 

Wash. — I Will see him. [Officer exit R. ? E. Enter 
Arnold on crutches R. j E. Music7\ Ah, general, not 
yet able to lay those things aside? [Rising conducts 
Arnold to casv-chair.'] Occupy this seat. 

Am. — Thank you. You are kind. No, but I am 
improving rapidly. But how are you this morning? 
Wash. — Confused! 

Am. — But look on the bright side, the plot is exposed. 
Wash. — Yes, and I thank you for your valuable assis- 
tance. 

Am. — Conway will make a complete statement and 
apologize to you. 

Wash. — O yes, its coming out all right, but the risks 
that were run, and what a skeptic it makes of one. We 



ARNOLD THE TRAITOR. I9 



begin to lose faith in humanity. Your great victory last 
fall tilled us with hope and faith ; this business fills us with 
despair and loss of faith. No, Congress is not all unfaithful. 
Justice will prevail. You heard of the attempt to bribe 
Reed, a delegate from this State? 
.4r//.— No. 

lVas/K~^h reached me yesterday. It seems one of the 
British commissioners, the secretary, I believe, had a 
Tory relative here, a Mrs. Fergeson, of Philadelphia, who 
was intimate with Reed. Reed was suspected of easy 
virtue. Mrs. Fergeson was authorized to offer him high 
official station and a large sum of money if he w^ould use 
his influence in favor of peace, according to the submis- 
sive terms offered by the commissioners. The reply of 
Mr. Reed is note-worthy. He is alleged to have said: 
•'I am not worth purchasing, but such as I am the king 
of England is not rich enough to buy.*' 

J;vA— Good, good! 'general take heart, there are 
thousands of this true stripe! Don't lose faith in the 
American people! 

If'as//. — Quite true, Arnold. God rules. Truth and 
justice will prevail. The glorious sun is life-giving to 
the things that are alive, but to the things that contain the 
germs of death, decay and petrification is hastened. So 
with this war, the valorous become more brave and the 
craven the greater knave. But I have business with you. 
Clinton evacuates Philadelphia soon; I must follow him. 
You cannot resume an active position, else }ou should 
take charge of the right wing of my army. Arnold I 
have named you for Military Governor of Pennsylvania. 
Congress indorses, and you will live in Philadelphia, 
exercising all the authority and prerogatives of governor. 
With tlie alliance of the French we will push matters, 



ARNOLD THE TRAITOR. 



and I trust ere the close of the campaign England will 
recognize and submit to our Declaration of Independence. 
Af'n. — Yes, for the fates have decreed it! 

CLOSED IN BY PARLOR IN 2. 



Scene 3.— Parlor in 2, same as in Scene 1 of Act IJ. A settee 
down R. 

Mari(aret. — \Enters C. D. Going to settee takes -photo- 
grafh Jrom folds of her dress, soliloquizes. Lozv niusic^ 
Benedict, Benedict ; Bene-dicere. " Bene" — well ; "dicere " 
to speak — "well spoken of." And so thou art my love 
— tried and true — wounded and I cannot be with you. 
O thou dear one! Father says you are a rebel. You 
are not. You are a patriot. You love your country. 
You rebel at tyrany. Father does not know you. I 
know you. O, when will this horrid war cease? 

Shif. — S^Enter C.\ Margaret, I have news for you. 
That young man — you think of him often, no doubt — 
Benedict Arnold, whom you met some years ago — 

Marg. — Yes! [Rising and running to him.\ Yes, 
what of him? 

Ship. — Nothing; only Washington and Congress have 
appointed him Military Governor of Pennsylvania. He 
is to take up his residence in Wm. Penn's old house, 
corner of Norris alle}' and Second street, and assume 
power of his office at once. 

Mar^-. — \ Eagerly. \ Yes, father, yes: and now I am 
happy. Listen, father, you will forgive me. O don't be 
vexed with me, indeed he is not a rebel. 

Ship. — How's that? 

Marg. — You know I have received a letter or two 
from him? 

Ship. — Yes. 



ARNOLD THE TRAITOR. 



Marg. — Well he is a true man, and a noble one. He 
is an American. He means well. He is honest. 

Shif. — Yes. 

Marg. — And he loves me. 

5///)^.— How's that? 

Marg. — Yes, father, and I love him, and you love me, 
and you don't care do you? I know you are not angry. 

S/i?'p. —Well, a litde romance was all right, but — but, 
it had better stop. 

Marg. — O, father, it can't. I tell you we love each 
other. 

Shif. — O, a litde. Let it go now. 

Marg. — Yes, but you don't understand. He has asked 
me to be his, and what could I say? 

Ship. — Say no, of course. That's easy. 

Marg. — But it was not easy, and I couldn't. Now, 
you don't care, dear father? I know you don't. He is 
the verv soul of honor and bravery. 

Sh'rp. — You marry an officer of the rebej army ! 

Marg. — O vou don't understand him. Now please 
don't be vexed. 

Shif. — Well you are old enough to know what you 
want to do. No, I am not angry, but I don't like these 
rebels. 

Servant.— \Puts head in C D. \ Maj. Gen. Benedict 
Arnold ! 

Shif. — No, I don't— 

Marg. — Yes, please father. | To servant. | Conduct 
him here. Now, father, its all right. You will see him, 
won't you? Its nearly two years since you have seen 
him? O, how he must have changed in that time. Hark, 
he comes! \^Enter Arnold C. D., zvith eriiteh and eane. 
Musie. Marg. starts tozvard him.\ Oh, Benedict! 
{Checks herself.'] Gen. Arnold, I am glad to see you. 



ARNOLD THE TRAITOR. 



Am. — [Adv(i>ic/ug:~] x\nd I you. Your father? 

S/i/'p. — Gen. Arnold, how are your 

A7'n. — Entirely recovered, Mr. Shippen, thank you, 
save a weakness in this leg that compells me to use the 
crutch and cane a while yet. You see I hasten to call 
upon my friends [loo/c//io at J/ar^-.'j of a few years ago. 
You are all well? 

Ship. — Quite so, and now general you will excuse me, 
[looking at zvatch~\ my business demands me. Margaret 
will call 'Mrs. Shippen. [Exit C. B.'] 

Maro-. — [Embracing Arnold.'] I will call mother, but 
not now, my love. 

Am. — My Margaret, how^ gl'id I am. 

Marg. — And I. Come set down. [Going to settee 
down /?.] 

Am. — Your father? 

Marg. — O, he will be all right. Don't you like him? 

Am. — Of course, my love. But now I am here. You 
have heard? So long separated, Margaret darling, m}- 
wife! 

Marg. — O I am happy. That word ! 

Am. — And you will call me? 

Marg. — Husband ! 

Am. — Yes, yes. All is ready — house furnished, 
servants secured; everything. Can it be soon, to-morrow? 

Marg.—0\\\ 

Am. — Then }-ou say, let it be soon. One week this 
day ? 

Marg. — Yes. 

Am. — O, ni}' love ! How felicities are crowding upon 
me. Yet this is a tr3-ing time — this war. I say it not 
boastingly, but it seems I am very popular with the 
soldiers and the people. Washington said: " While you 
are recovering you will be Governor of Pennsylvania, 



ARNOLD THE TRAITOR. 2 J 

but you must command one wing of my army as soon as 
you are able. You are the best fighting general we 
have." Now, Margaret, I know that we are in the strug- 
gle that will give birth to a new nation. 

Maro. — Yes, general, I believe it. 

Am. — Pure men of letters mav be great — Shakes- 
peare, Moore and Milton -but the man ruler of millions 
is greater, an Alexander, a Caesar. These colonies will, 
ere long, need a ruler, a king. I dare not breath it 
aloud, but I am yovmg. In these veins there lurks a fire, 
and in this heart an ambition. 

Marg. — ^My dear you dream. 

Am. — Yes, I dream. 1 dream aloud to you, but to no 
other living soul. And it is an audacious dream; but 
what of that? Old Mythology presents a gruff, irritable 
Jubiter as King, and an old masculine Juno, Queen. A 
new vision shows a clear brained, healthy man King, and 
a gentle, loving lady Queen.' Not in the skys, but on 
earth. Execution wedded to Justice. Had I the power 
with my crutch as the magic wand, I would unroll the 
future and show you the ideal throne and government. 

\_Music zuit/wiit. Soi>g\ " Onr Country,^'' as -parlor 
draws off and shozvs tahkaux. Washington and Martha 
upon plat/or ni, on ich/'rh, in gold, is the word '■'• Libert \ T 
hack of Wash, and -wife is huge scroll ■' Constitution of the 
United States of America:"' draperies of the American 
fag. 

Curtain. 

END OF ACT SECOND. 



24 ARNOLD THE TRAITOR. 



ACT 3. 

SciCNE 1. Full stage, lianquet scene—table arranged, plants, 
ete, Music from bank of ferns. Pinter ladies and gents R. 3 E., 
talk and seat themselves at table. 

Milda. — \_Entcring vjjth Arnold R. i E. Eoxv music. 
You sustain the expense of this entertainment? 

Am. — Yes, and it i.s rather expensive. 

Milda. — You failed to have Robinson, or in fact any 
of my loyalist friends invited. Yes, this to-night is 
exclusively of the democratic element, that I already 
percieve. 

Aril. — I have entertained your English friends often. 
Come, they wait on us. [ T/icy scat themselves.'] 
\JDarkie waiters -fly aroniid zcit/i cake, ices, etc. Music] 

Omnes. — Now for the toasts, the toasts! 

Toast-master — \^Rising and motionino for music to stop.] 
You are ready for the toasts. Ladies and gentlemen we 
will first drink to the health of our Philadelphia ladies, 
and now Gen. Arnold let us hear you respond to the 
proposed toast, "Philadelphia Ladies." 

Am. — \^Rising.] Ladies and gentlemen: I esteem 
myself happy to speak on such a theme. I have seen 
feminine loveliness upon the coral strands of India, within 
the historic lands of Europe, and in many cities in our 
own colonies, but I speak not of these. Nay, I speak not 
of the ancient Helens or Lucretias, the Romans' matrons 
haughtiness, the Grecian maidens' classicness, I speak not 
of Teuton's barbaric beauties, these are types of loveliness 
that are soon exhausted. But I speak of the fair Phila- 
delphia ladies, throughout the days we may sing her 
praise. [^Cheers.] O the wisdom and wit; lacrity and 
life; daring and dignity, happiness and health, grandeur 



ARNOLD THE TRAITOR. 25 

and grace, wedded and welded in Philadelphia's fair ones. 
\Chccrs, b^■clV()/^^ The best of all types united, one 
delightful conspiracy of loveliness. They dazzle and 
dare us; they praise and they please us; they freeze and 
they tease us; they advise and advance us. Let the 
bright glasses clink. Their health let us drink! 
\ Cheers, merriment^ music, drinking,]^ 

Toast-master. — [/?/.s7>/i,'-.J Now. ladies and gentlemen, 
if we have sutiiciently recovered from the force of Gen. 
Arnold's eloquence, we will listen to a gentleman, a states- 
man and a scholar, on a iheme that is just now dear to 
everv true American heart. Gen. Hamilton we propose 
to drink to -The Daring Soldier." 

Hani. — [/t'/V/V/t;.] Ladies and gentlemen: Hannibal 
dared and died to gratify a vain and foolish pride, Julius 
Caesar figured and fought for ignoble conquest, Cortez 
lived and labored to advance the interests of a lifeless 
monarch}'. These were daring soldiers, but they lived 
years ago. New thought, new life, new causes of war 
and new soldiers have since been evolved. We think of 
one, a bright, brave, brilliant boy, who fought for new- 
freedom and new thought; who fought for a nation's eman- 
cipation from tyranny! \Cheers.'\ We speak of one whom 
Congress failed to respect, yet did he his dut}^ and scorned 
the dangers of daring. We drink to the matchless leader 
of the patriots through the trackless woods of Maine! 
The hero of Ridgefield and Saratoga! The dauntless 
rider of the black horse! The large hearted citizen and 
warm hearted friend! The soldier with whom patriotism 
amounts to a passion. Drink to him all! He touches the 
climax of fame. The brave General Arnold by name! 

[J/?/5/r, cheers., drinking.'] 

CLOSED BY PARLOR IN 2, 



26 ARNOLD THE TRAITOR. 

Scene 2.— I'arlor in 2. 

Marg. — \ Enters J., i E. \ O, this trouble of Benedict 
seems serious. Court-martialed! I wonder, what it 
means? My neighbor said we had been indiscrete in 
bargaining for Mt. Pleasant. Why should we not have 
a pleasant home? And then that we had gone to parties 
and given them; but what of that? Benedict is Governor 
and that is expected. [^Entcr Am. R. i E.A^ You are 
back. O tell me all about it. 

Am. — \ Dejectedly. \ You want to hear it? all right, 
listen- It is my tale of woe. I was tried by a court of 
military ntiicers for an offense against militar\- law. I 
was accused of appropriating public funds to my private 
use. O those jealous under-hirelings. Did they tind me 
guilty? No! But the jealous dogs were not satisfied. 
x\lthough I was found "not guilty," and as innocent of the 
crime charged as our boy sleeping in yonder room, were 
they to be foiled? Some worthy members of Congress 
were at the bottom of the dastardly plot; were they to.be 
defeated? A verdict was rendered, something like this: 
Although not guilty, as alleged, we recommend tiiat Gen. 
Arnold be reprimanded by Gen. Washington for extrav- 
agance in a time of great public want. 

Marg. ~A\. was a shameful plot. 

Am. — Of course it was. O, ye, honorable American 
Congressmen! You advance Lee, Sullivan, and Gates: 
but me, I do the fighting and receive the reprimands. I 
receive the scars of battle and must receive in addition 
the venom of your jealousy. By heaven, I'll not 
endure it! 

Marg. — \ Frightened. ] O Benedict don't, please don't, 
it will all come out right. Let's quit this horrible busi- 
ness entirel}-. Resign! Let us go down to Connecticut 
and you can resume your old work, anvhow what else 
can vou do? 



ARNOLD THE TRAITOK. 27 

.-lr//..-r-What. elsexan I do? Why make an appeal to 
the American people. They will see justice done me. I 
will expose those jealous hounds. Margaret, I love you: 
I love this country: I love Washington. Heaven bless 
him, he iiated it, he sympathizes with me; but, Margaret, 
can I be spat upon? Have every spark of my manhood 
extinguished by a few dogs? What if I am in debt? Its 
a debt incurred in maintaining the dignity of my position. 
I am put down to exist on a poor, miserable pittance: 
that's the justice of Congress. 

Alarg. — Be calmed, dearest. Come, Jet us go think 
over these matters quietlv. Time rectifies all misunder- 
standings. 

Aril. — I As thcx exeunt .\ Ves, Time, the great arbiter 
of events and of individual destiny will one day drive every 
man to his own place — the traitors to trouble, the honest 
to heaven. \ Exeunt L. i E.\ 

DRAWS OFF TO PARLOR IN 3. 



SCENIC'S. — Room in ii. Lir^e mirror; iileove at H., raisi-d nhout 
one foot from level of stage; chair in alcove; other chairs at table. 

Milda. — \ Dressed as Goddess of War lie/ore mirror. \ 
Yes I can pose as Goddess of War and afford entertain- 
ment for an evening to the Tory elite. But why not be 
a real goddess? Sir Henry desires it. Why not turn the 
scales in this desperate struggle? Women and war I 
Shall not history that shows between the lines read, "One 
British lady saved the colonies?" I cannot use helmet, 
sword and shield, but a greater trinity — thought, intrigue 
and arbitration. Ah. yes. I have begun, I shall continue. 
He surely will' come. 



28 ARNOLD THE TRAITOR. 

\ . -_ 

Arn.--[Bnler R. i E.\ Ah, goddess of battles! 

Milda. — Commander of men ! 

.'Ir//.— Thank you. 

J///^^?.— Thank you. 

Am. — Yes, but a change has come o\er the spirit of 
my dream. 

Milda. — The court-martial ? 

Am.- — Even it. 

Milda. — An advertisement ^f your virtues, nothing 
more. You will leave Philadelphia.'' 

Ai'n. — Yes, I can do nothing else. 

Milda. — Will Washington place you in command at 
West Point? 

Ai'H. — If I want it. 

Milda. — -You take command at West Point, the destiny 
of the colonies is in your hands. 

Am. — What's that? 

Milda. — Nothing, only this is an important time and 
fate's opportunity. If the colonies win, it is a re\'olution; 
if England, a rebellion is put down. These things are 
only relative. See here. An otiicer leaves the British 
army and joins the American, to you, he is a lover of 
freedom; to me, a traitor. An officer leaves the American 
and joins the English armv to vou a traitor, to me a 
patriot and a lover of peace. Let England succeed, as 
she doubtless will, and the American traitor is enrolled a 
saint in all histories, and is made Governor General of 
the colonies. 

Am. — What sort of sophistry is this? 

Milda. — It is sound logic, as your own reason will 
attest. This is the way history- will read: "A notable 
American general, in whose hands was destiny, preceiv- 
ing the folly of further rebellion, the senselessness of 
rupture with magnanimous England, resigns himself, 



ARNOLD THE TRAITOR. 29 

army, ammunition and arms to the mother country, dis- 
playing a tact and love for the race that finds a parallel 
nowhere in history!'" 

Arn. — Well what has all this to do with mer 

Milda. — [Handiiio- docsJ^ Here are some dissertations 
by practical statesmen, Beverly Robinson, of America, 
and others on the ethical aspect of the war. Mr. and 
Mrs. Shippen and myself go to New York to be near 
Sir Henry Clinton. Here, bv the way. is a letter from 
Clinton, that you may examin. 

.4r«.— Shippen going to New York? 

Milda. — Yes, he sees the folly, as you know, of this 
senseless rebellion. He knows, as we know, that a 
qountry whose representatives commission bigoted cowards 
to high places in its army, while it neglects the brave 
soldier; a country whose Congressmen court-martial the 
bravest commander and disgraces him before the nation. 
This country, even though it win the war, cannot manage 
its own affairs. Internal dissentions would work and 
ruin it, and, like a runaway child, it must, as the night 
falls, come crying home to find protection. | Takes, seat 
in alcove. 3fusic.'\ It has — 

Arn. — [6?;/ steps of alrove.~\ Stop! thou wizard of 
wisdom, thou hast confused me. Thy last shaft strikes 
home. Is it poison 01 panacea? The liglit dazzles me. 
S^Dark stage. Strong ligJit on Milda. '\ But nay! go on. 
Am. I the man of destiny? 

Milda. — \^Risino\^ Thou art! [^Liglit throzvn on ghost 
oj Washington. Another phantom sneaks up {blue light) 
and stabs Washington in back. Washington turns. Other 
phantom falls back. Light fades out. Weird music. '\ 

CURTAIN, 



30 ARNOLD THE TRAITOR. 



ACT 4-. 

•SCEMK 1.— Near Siony Point ou the Hudson. Full stajje. 
Wooded banks. House L. V. E. Dark singe. Low music. 

Am. — \E titers L. i E. in heavy coat, dark lantern. | 
H.asten now the consummation of this distasteful business. 
I have thought until mv brain is confused, now for action. 
Soon -Anderson" will be" here. [Z,/5/e«5.] I hear the 
dip of their oar. [ Throivs lio;ht on boat that moors R. 
2E.-] 

Andre. — \^Springin<J;ollt.^ Augustus.' 

Am. — \Shaking hands.'] Mr. Anderson. [Zb others 
in boat. \ You may take the boat yonder, and return to 
the "Point.'"' \ To And.] It is not far from dawn. 
Come! we must hasten. Here, Anderson, on this rock. 
[Goes to rock Z.. takes off coat, lays dozun -papers, etc.] 
You came on the Vulture? 

And. — Yes, it lies live miles below. 

Am. — Col. Robinson on board? 

And. — Yes, he said: '"To-night is the beginning of the 
end. Arnold will ha\e all ready.'' 

Am. — And so I have. Have you? 

And. — I have. 

Am. — See here, here is a detailed account of the posi- 
tion of the forces at West Point and between there and 
White Plains below. | Takes anotiicr paper.] Here is a 
complete list of the stores in the various buildings at 
West Point. You notice the position and contents are 
designated here. 

v4//fl^.— Let me Scie. Heavens! I had no idea of the 
extent of arms and ammunition stored there — furnishings 
of all kinds. I positively did not think the rebel army 
possessed such a treasure depot. 



ARNOLD THE TRAITOR. 3 1 



Ar?i. — You did not? O, yes, it is the capital of our — 
I mean their forces. There flows the Hudson, Anderson, 
from the Adirondacks to the ocean, exhaust, drain of^ her 
waters, you have bed and banks, her usefulness is gone. 
Take the supplies at West Point, vou have the dry 
channel, a skeleton arniN' without muscle or blood. 

■ And. — Does our meeting mean that? 

Am. — Yes, nothing less. In the shadow of this moun- 
tain we shape a nation's destiny. Prodigal America 
shall eat husks! But here, here is a complete surve\-, 
locating the roads and passes, the valleys and the hills, 
the danger places and the weak sp(Jts. Have Clinton 
follow implicitly my instructions here in every detail. I 
shall scatter the "rebels" as I have indicated. On the 
25th vou take possession of West Point, look it over, see 
if I have' omitted any important thing. Can you undei- 
starid it? Ask me questions. 

And. — Possessing West Point will it not secure the 
Hudson from source to mouth? 

Am. — It will; and what does that mean? Just this, 
the possession of the Hudson cuts the colonies in twain, 
all military and commercial intercourse is intersected. It 
connects New York citv and Canada, accomplishing that 
which Burgoyne and St. Leger's expeditions, with their 
10,000 men, sought to effect, but failed. 

And. — I see it all; it is complete. J^ut general it is 
getting daylight. l-S^^f.ii'e has bccon/c //o-/iter, the birds 
chirp. I The birds are already awake. 

Arn. — Yes, and this is a conspicuous spot. Day comes 
suddenly as the sun rises over the mountains. \Cannon 
heard.'] Col. Livingston must be flring on the Vulture. 
But for that sharp bend we could see her. Have you 
the commission and the money from Clinton? 



32 ARNOLD THE TRAITOR. 



And. — Yes, here. \ Hands over docs. Arnold looks 
at. ] How am I to reach the Vulture? 

Am. — '[After fan sc.\ Satisfactory. What.' 

And. — How am I to return? 

Am. — -The man who lives in that house yonder, Joshua 
Smith, will row you down. 

And. — Does he understand? 

Ar)i. — [^Running up h(ink.'\ He obeys me. Ho. 
Smith! He will answer soon. \ Smith opens door.'] Here 
he is 

Smith. — Well ? [Advancing.!^ 

Arn. — 1 want you, as I indicated last night, to row this 
gentleman down to a sloop somt- rive or six miles belovv. 
■ And. — How dare we? It is daylight, and with this 
cannonading we cannot leach her. 

Am. — Will you attempt to reach New York overland? 

And. — -Yes, with a guide to -'neutral grounds" and a 
passport from you. 

Arn. — And what about the papers? 

And.-— I shall securely conceal them. See. [ Takes off 
boot puts in papers,] Now give me a large coat or cloak 
to cover this uniform. 

Am. — [7b Smith, zcho has been bnsv at boat.] Smith, 
have vou a large coat? Give ir to this gentleman. 
[^Arnold -vrites. Andre gets Smith's roat.] Here. \^Hand- 
ing passport to And.] You will get horses on the other 
side of the river. Smith, a passport for you. Conduct 
Mr. Anderson to "neutral grounds.'* \ Smith goes to boat.] 
Andre, for God's sake don't let this miscarry. I hazard 
everything. M}- name is now associated in histor}^ forever 
with the Hudson and the Mohawk valley. No one will 
recall Saratoga without thinkmg of the bloody charge I 
made. I am honored and loved. 

And. — KvQ you the hero of Saratoga? Has Congress 



ARNOLD THE TRAITOR. 33 



evinced an}- love towards you for 3'our services, your 
losses? A brilliant general is basely court-martialled and 
disgraced. 

Ar/K — There: no more. I am driven to this step. If 
we fail Andre, if we fail, I shall be known in all history 
as Benedict Arnold the Traitor! O, wife! O Washing- 
ton! O. my brave boys! Too late. My God! But go, 
go Andre! No, not a word. We will not, we must not 
fail. Go, and may heaven bless — - O! why don't you 
go; be off ! S^Andrc and Smith push off. ^ Pshaw, I am 
an old woman; what has heaven to do with this matter.'' 
There goes the information. What if I do antagonize a 
few friends? Only for a short time, then reunion and 
reconciliation. Arnold appointed President of the United 
Colonies, and Arnold's grievances avenged! \Miisic. 
Exit L. I EA 



CLOSED IN BY WOOD IN 2. 



Scene 2.— Near Tarrytown. Wood in 2. Rock in center, as in 
other scene. 

[Enter Isaac Van Wort and David Willianis R. i ^.] 

Isaac. — Washington knows what he is about. 

I)av. — You'r right, he does that. 

/Xr.^Let's wait on this rock. Paulding will catch up 
with us. I Looks back R. i E.\ Yonder he comes, 
now. Hello, John! [Enter Paulding R. i E.) What 
you doin' with them clothes on? 

^no. — Well, you see them British nabbed me yester- 
da}', and as they wanted my good clothes they gave me 
these instead. 

Dav. — ^You traded even? 



34 ARNOLD THE TRAITOR. 

'Jno. — I had to. But I look one of these here genuine 
English soldiers. Hello! who's this? {Enter Andre 
horse back. Pass^ing onT^ 
, Omnes. — Hold! \Taking hold lwrse.~\ 

And. — Well, gentlemen, be easy. I guess you belong 
to our party. 

Jno.— ^\rAi party .^ 

And. — The lower party. 

yno. — That's right. 

And. — Good! \Throzvs. hack coat.'] You perceive I 
am a British officer. Andre is my name. I am adjutant 
general to Gen. Clinton. 

ynp. — \SalHting:'] Aye, sir. 

And. — Yes, I have been up the country on important 
business. \^Look at it'atch.'\ I must hasten on to New 
York. 

yno. — 'iStop^i hi)n.'\ Stop a minute, mister, just get off 
a little while, seems like there is a mistake. We happen 
to be Americans, and belong to the upper party. 

Ike. — Yes, and we are on. top now. 

yno. — Adj. Gen. Andre is our prisoner. 

And. — Well. But, gentlemen, how is this? Have 
patience. Come, see here, \Jakcs out pass] I have a pass 
signed by B. Arnold, major general. 

yno. — [^Takes it.] What you doing with such a thing. 
l^Rcads.'] " Permit T^r. yohn Anderson to pass the guards 
to White Plains, or below if he chooses, he being on 
public business by my direction. (Signed) B. Arnold. 
Maj. Gen." I guess you have made another mistake, 
mister. This is for Mr. John Anderson, and not Adj. 
Gen. Andre. This looks bad. Get down off that horse. 

And. — But, gentlemen, you don't understand. 1 — 

yno. — No, we don't. Maybe we shall soon. You are 



ARNOLD THE TRAITOR. 35 

a little crooked. Get off your horse, I say! | Afiisir. 
And. spurs i/p, the three hold on and take him from horse.'] 

yno. — You didn't quite come it? Now let's see what 
3'ou got in your pockets. Hurry up, or we will help you. 
[^And. take off eoat and turns poekets.] Off with your 
vest. \^Takes off vest.] Now your boots. 

And. — This is sheer nonsense. I've nothing concealed 
about me. 

yno. — Take off your boots! 

And. — I am tired of — [^Miisic.'] 

yno. — Ike, you and Dave take 'em off. [^Andre stn/o- 
g'/es. They take of boots and find papers. yohn looks at 
the)n.~\ My God, he is a spy! 

And. — '[^Panting.] Here take this watch and this 
purse. Give me the papers and let me go. 

yno. — What's that? O, no, you are a little late, mister. 
I guess we will take cnarge of these documents. 

And. — Well let me go. I will give you an order for 
fifty pounds worth of goods, merchandise. 

yno. — Anything else? 

And. — Yes, I will give you each <£ioo. 

yno. — That's a big pile of money? 

And. — Yes, but I will do it. 

yno.--0 no, you won't, mister. You are a little too 
anxious. I guess you may save your money and goods 
and gold watches to hire Hessians with. We are country 
fellars, mister, but you British can't fool us, nor buy us 
either. You are a spy and we have not forgotten the 
fate of Nathanial Hale. Come boys, we will take this 
man and these papers first to Col. Jameson at New Castle, 
and he can notif}- Gen. Arnold of his arrest. The sneak, 
as though Arnold would give him a pass. \E.\eunt 
L. I E.] 

DRAWS OFF TO FULL STAGE, 



36 ARNOLD THE TRAITOR. 

SCKNK 3.— On Hudson. Arnold's home. Full sta^o. Lr.rje 
windows. Mts. in distance. Sofa, table, chairs, etc. 

Arn.— [^Discovered zuith Mrs. A. and child on sofa Z.] 
My love this life on the mountain side grows a little 
irksome to you, does it not? 

Mrs. A. — [J.ooks out window.'] No, Benedict, this is a 
lovely spot. What a noble river, and those majestic 
heights over which I catch a glimpse of the American 
flag. Could I ever tire of this? No, having about me 
this grandeur, and you, and our dear boy. 

Am. — But no society, saving an exceptional visit from 
an officer. 

Mrs. A. — You forget the visit of General and Mr-'. 
Schuyler and their daughter, and in a day or two Gen. 
Washington will be here, returning from Hartford, as he 
wrote you. How fresh and balm}- the morning air? 
The sun is just touching up the golden and scarlet foliage 
on the other side of the river. Why, here come some 
one, hastening up the path. 

A7'n. — [Looking:] I don't know who it is, a messenger 
of some sort. Well, [niessoigcr hands note to . Jr/;.] what 
is it? [Reads.] 

"5 A. M., Sept. 25th. 

"My Dear Gkn. Arnold: We have a surprise for 
you. We have concluded our conference with our French 
friends at Hartford two days earlier than anticipated. 
Marques de LaFayette and suit. Gen. Knox and staff, I 
and militar}' family will breakfast with you this morning. 
Will be on hand shortly. 

"Geo. WAsinNcJTON.'* 

Well, it is a surprise; but nothing should surprise a 
soldier. You see to breakfast and I'll arrange for the 
horses. [Starts out L. 2 E .] Washington here, to-day! 



ARNOLD THE TRAITOR. 37 

[.is/dc.'] Strange coincident; to-day the British take 
possession of West Point, [^^v// L. 2 E.'\ 

Mrs. A. — [^Rings be/l, servant appears R. 2 E.\ Have 
breakfast prepared for fifteen additional persons. {^Exit 
servant.'] What is the matter with my dear husband? 
Why so grave; why did not joy light, up his face when 
he learned that Washington will soon be here? Arnold 
and Washington — let me associate those names as 
history will, for they are America's pride and joy. Wash- 
ington! Arnold! 'yGoing doivn stage.'] You've seen the 
fading sun trail glories in the western sky. With long, 
slender fingers touch all things with red and gold? Sun- 
like these world famed heroes shall fail and die, and color 
history with events that ne'er grow old. 

Am, — [^Entering luith Ilani/Iton and j or ^ other 
offieers C. D.] Mrs. Arnold, Col. Hamilton. 

Col. H. — Mrs. Arnold I have hastened to tell you that 
the plans are changed somewhat. Gen. Washington 
bade us tell you that you should breakfast and not wait 
for him, that he would ride down and examine the 
redoubts on this side of the river and would be with you 
afterward. Marquis LaFayette and Gen. Knox accom- 
pan}' him, and we of their staff, are their poor represen- 
tatives. 

]\Irs. A. — Gentlemen we are sorr}- that the generals 
will not be here. You are most welcome. After your 
morning ride you are doubtless ravenously hungry? 

Col. Ji. — It was an invigorating ride. 

Scrv. — \JJead in R. '2 E.] De breakfast am prepared ! 

Mrs. A. — A most timely call. Come colonel, general! 
Come gentlemen, all, we will appease the appetites these 
mountain breezes make. 

Ar)i. — Yes, you go eat. You must ex — 

Mrs. A. — Why, general? 



3$ ARNOLD THE TRAITOR. 

Ar/i. — You will excuse me now. The unexpected 
aiTi\';il of ouv commander-in-chief obliges me to complete 
some accounts, make out certain requisitions, etc. 

Onines. — We excuse you. 

A7-71. — There, go! \^All exeunt R. 2 E. save Am. zvho 
■paces stai(e^ Can I eat with the brave boys at such a 
time? Prepare for Washington — how? Can I quickly 
adduce and boil down all the various arguments and 
reasons that lead me to take this step.'^ And would they 
touch his valorous heart or convince his read}^ judgment? 
O, Washington, thou art a man I love, so full of truth 
and simple honesty. How will this step that consummates 
to-day appear in thy pure eyes? And then, my wife! 
Great God, these thoughts torment me! \Stops:\ iVye! 
then think upon success. Yes, yes; when all my plans 
succeed then explanations will be easy. Failure! What 
fiend suggests that word? No. I cannot fail, by noon 
to-day all will be over. 

Off. — \Entcr C. D., saliiting:'\ General, a letter from 
Col. Jameson. \_Sfarts to r.v//.] 

Ani. — [ Takes letter. ^^ Stav, lievitenant, there may be 
a reply. 

Off. — No, Col. Jameson said there would be none. 

{Exit c. n.^ 

Am. — {Goes dozen staoc. iMiis/c. Eeads.] O, hell! 
what's this? An English officer bearing pass for John 
Anderson, signed by my name, detained a prisoner, the 
papers found on his person sent to Washington! [Stao- 
oe7's: controJs himself.'] I must act quickly. {Goes to R. 
I E.] O, Mrs. Arnold! Pardon me, but won't you 
'come here a moment, please? {Turns down.] My horse 
must be prepared. {Runs out L. i E.] 

Mrs. A. — {Enters R. 2 E.] Why, where is he; 
something unusual must be the matter? 



ARNOLD THE TRAITOR. 39 

Am. — \Entcrs L. i E. hurriedlv., takes wife in (ir/us.'] 
Together, my darling, we have experienced joy and 
sorrow. To you I have conhded every secret, save one. 
I have no time for details. Margaret I thought to bring 
peace by surrendering West Point to the British. 

Mrs. A. — West Point — the British.^ 

Am. — Yes, vou will not understand: my plans fail. 1 
am in personal peril. I must fly instantly. My life 
depends upon m}- reaching the British lines in safety. 

Jfrs. A. — You — false — Washington ? 

Am. — O what a withering curse is this, a foretaste of 
my doom.^ [A/nsie. Jfrs. A. falls senseless at his feet.'] 
Margaret! wife, wife! I will explain — explain. [^Reeovers 
self control . | Only a faint. [^Places her on sofa. Goes to 
7?. 2 E. calls.~\ Oh, John! She will recover soon, and 1, 
I must hasten — or hang. No, this [exhihitin<j;- pistol] 
first. ^Exit C. B.] 

Serv. — \_Enters R. 2 E. Looks around, sees Mrs. .1.] 
The Lord help us, what's this? Mrs. Arnold, the lady, 
dead? O help, here! Help! 

\Enter Col. //., officers, servants. Confusion.] 

Maf. Eranks. — Mrs. Arnold is sick. John, run for Dr. 
Eustis, at the hospital. Bring camphor, bath her head, 
chafe her hands. Come, let us carry her to her room. 
\_Eranks and servaids exeunt zvith Mrs. A., R. j E.\ 

\_E//ter Washington, LaEayette and officers C. D.] 

Col. H. — General you have arrived under distressing 
circumstances. The house is all alarmed over the condi- 
tion of Mrs. Arnold, whom thev have just carried to her 
room insensible. 

Wash. — What's the matter? Where >is Gen. Arnold? 

Col. //. — 1 don't know. 

[JA//. Eranks enters R. j E.] 



40 ARNOLD THE TRAITOK. 

1Vas/i.— Franks you are Arnold's aid. where is he and 
what is the matter? 

Franks. — Gen. Arnold has doubtless gone to the garri- 
son to prepare to receive you. I don't know what is the 
matter with Mrs. Arnold. 

Of. — A messenger! {^Messenger appears C. D.] 

Col. H. — \_Gocs to C. receives Ietters.^^ Letters for 
Gt-n. Washington, with documents. 

Wash. — {^Sitting at table.^ Well, we may as well make 
ourselves as comfortable as possible while our horses eat. 
Hamilton you may read the letters, they are all of a 
military nature. 

Col. H. — \Takes letters., opens reads.] 
'■'• Major Andre to Gen. Washington: 

"Salem, 24 Sept., 1780. 

"Sir: I beg your excellency will be persuaded that no 
alteration in the temper of vay mind or apprehension for 
my safety induces me to take this step in addressing you, 
but that it is to rescue myself from an imputation of 
having assumed a mean character for treacherous purposes 
or self interest, a conduct incompatible with the principles 
that actuate me as well as with my condition of life "^ 

Wash. — This is an enigma to me. Better read some 
one of the others first, they ma}' explaitL 

CoJ. //. — Here is one from Col. Jameson. \Reads.'\ 
" Col. Jameson to Gen. Washington : 

"New Castle, 24 Sept., 1780. 

"Dear General: The accompanying documents and 
papers we found upon a person purporting to be at once 
John Anderson and Maj Andre. His account of himself 
is decidedly crooked. We think him a spy. He carried 
a pass through our guards, made out for John Anderson, 
signed B. Arnold, major general. I immediatel}' dis- 



ARNOLD THE TRAITOR. 



patched to Gen. Arnold. He may understand the matter 
What shall be done with the prisoner? 

"Your excellen^ry's humble servant, 

" Jameson. 

Was/i. — Marquis, I cannot understand this matter, do 
you? 

LaFay. — Not yet, my dear general. Look at some 
more of the papers, they ma}" explain. 

Messenger. — [Enters C. Z^.] A letter to Gen. Wash- 
ington from Gen. Arnold. 

Wash. — Ah, that's it. Read it. 

Col. H. — \ Receives letter. Mess. exit. Col. H. reads. '\ 

"On Board the Vulture, 25 Sept. 
"Sir"— 

Wash. — Stay! Is not that the British man of war we 
saw anchored just below here? 

LaFay. — I believe it was, general. 
Wash. — Go on with the letter. 

Col. H. — "Sir: The heart that is conscious of its own 
rectitude cannot attempt to palliate a step which the 
world may censure as wrong. I have ever acted from a 
principle of love to my country since the commencement 
of the present unhappy contest between Great Britian 
and the colonies. The same principle actuates my 
present conduct, however it may appear inconsistent to 
the world. 

Wash. — \Excitedly7\ Gentlemen, what can this mean? 
Read on. 

Col. H. — [Reads."\ I have no favor to ask for myself. 
I have too often experienced the ingratitude of my 
country to attempt it, but from what I know of your 
excellency I am induced to ask your protection for Mrs. 
Arnold from every insult and injury that a mistaken 



42 ARNOLD THE TRAITOR. 

vengence of my countrymen may expose her to. It 
ought to fall only on me; she is as good and innocent as 
an angel, and is incapable of dying wrong. From your 
excellency I have no fears on her account, but she may 
suffer from the mistaken fury of the country. In justice 
to the gentlemen of my family, Col. Varick and Maj. 
Franks, I think myself in honor bound to declare that 
they, as well as Joshua Smith (whom I know issuspected), 
are totally ignorant of any transactions of mine, that they 
had any reason to believe were injurious to the public. 

"B. Arnold." 

[ The officers look at one another. ] 

Wash, — \_Looks at papers on table. Sadly.'] Whom 
can we trust, now? Arnold, whom I loved and trusted 
as a brother, is a traitor, and has fled to the British. 
To-day, but for the providential capture, thank heaven, 
of this man Maj. Andre, West Point would have been 
placed, without a struggle, into British possession. Our 
young Republic would have received a death stab from 
which there would have been no recovery. Gentlemen, 
although friends prove faithless and those we trust most 
are treacherous, yet Providence favors the faithful for 
God rules. 

Offi.—Aye ! Yes, yes. 
^ [ lVz7d music. Enter Mrs. A.., R.j jS"., disheveled, tuild, 
dragging her boy. Doctor and attendants try to restrain 
^r. She goes up to Washington.] 

Mrs. A. — O, spare my child! Would you murder my 
darling boy? \Convidsions. Catches up her boy.~\ O, 
tny precious one, your father will return. Is that the 
Hudson? What grandeur, what beauty ! The sun kisses 
and floods the hills with glory, and your papa will be 
there. O, do not harm my child ! Why, in my dream I 



ARNOLD THE TRAITOR. 43 

saw the Goddess of Liberty come smiling over the 
mountains, attended by a youth — a. bright, young Repub- 
lic. Arnold and Washington made the rough places 
smooth, the crooked places straight. [^Jiyes become fixed. 
HoUoiu voiced. Sad music.'] Arnold a traitor! \Falh 
in convulsions.] 

I Tableaux. | 

CTRTAIN. 



ACT 5. 



Scene 1.— "Westminster Abby. Full stage. Church windows, 
tombs, effigies, etc. Almost 20 years supposed to have elapsed. 

{Guide sets reading at L. i E. Enter Mrs. A. and 
Arnold L. i E., show guide card and -pass in. Go Jrom 
tomb to tomb. Wierd light through stained glass. Wierd 
music. 

Mrs. A. — Here it is. {^Rcads^ "Sacred to the memory 
of Maj. John Andre, who, raised by his merits at an 
early period of life to the rank of adjutant general of the 
British forces in America, and employed in an important, 
but hazardous enterprise, fell a sacrifice to his zeal for his 
king and his country on the 2d day of October, 1780. 
Aged 29. Universally beloved and esteemed by the 
army in which he served, and lamented even by his foes. 
His gracious sovereign, King George III., has caused 
this monument to be erected." 

Am. — "An important, but hazardous enterprise," "fell 
a sacrifice." Wife, yesterday in the earliest dawn Andre 
and I stood at the foot of the mountains on the banks of 
the majestic Hudson. My last words to him were : " You 
will not, mxist not fail." But he did fail. To-day, not 
because of my failure, but of his. To-day he is enshrined 



44 



ARNOLD THE TRAITOR. 



in Westminster, and I am Benedict Arnold, the traitor — 
"hazardous," "sacrifice?" Who hazarded? Aye, who 
fell a sacrifice? And where shall I lie? What country 
will honor me with a monument? 

Mrs. A. — Come, general, don't think these gloomy 
thoughts. Let us leave this place where such injustice 
is shown in the world's monuments. 

Am. — No, not so soon, indulge me this time. I will 
never visit Westminster again. Here are the monuments, 
the tombs, the effigies of kings and queens; in yonder 
corner the poets and authors that England loves, and 
here the statesmen and warrio*rs she venerates. O what 
an aggregate of great men's bones? What man so lack- 
ing in valor and aspiration as not to be impressed by this 
atmosphere, how it feeds ambition's fires? But look at 
this tomb. How the light diffuses over it. Under there 
are the remains of Gen. Monk, Duke of Albemarle, 
whose part in England's history, in restoring the mon- 
archy, I was to re-enact in America to bring back the 
colonies. So they told me. Monk is made " Knight of the 
Garter," "gentleman of the bed-chamber," "master of the 
horse," "commander-in-chief," "Duke of Albemarle," and 
has an annual pension of ,£7,000, besides being entombed in 
England's dead house of glory. Why? Because he 
succeeded. If I had succeeded as Robinson, Clinton and 
Andre said I should. If I had succeeded in reuniting the 
empire, I, too, would have been showered with honors 
and have found a place and a monument here, as they 
promised me. O, Margaret, I dreamed of the day when 
grateful countrymen would linger with veneration round 
my resting place and say: "There lies one who loved his 
fellow men. He stopped bloodshed by putting an end to 
war. A valient warror he, but a mightier statesman! 
But O, wife, if I be held when dead in that same abhor- 



ARNOLD THE TRAITOR. 45 

rence as while living, how worse than hell it will be! 
[S'//euce, then moving u^ U. R.'\ Through that passage 
in the chapel of Henry VII., there lie Montague and 
Ormond. Have you heard their history? 

Guide. — \Ad.vancing.\ You can't go in their, sir. 

Am. — {Showing card.'] That is who I am. 

Guard. — \_In scorn.'] You Gen. Benedict Arnold, the 
general that betray — ah — who was once an American? 
Well, sir, I don't know that you have an}' privileges 
above other Jwnest men. {Looks at zuatch.] It is about 
time to close the Abby. You may go out this way. 
{Pointing L. C] 

{Exeunt L. C. Slow music] 

CLOSED IN BY WOOD IN 2. 



Scene 2.— Kilburn Wells, near London. Wood in 2. 
{Enter Earl Lauderdale and Sir Charles Fox L. i E.] 

Fox. — We are here ten minutes too soon. Now tell 
me. Earl, how this unfortunate affair occured. You 
remember I was not in attendance on the House of Lords 
on the 31st. 

Laud. — In my address, discussing the king's proclama- 
tion against seditious meetings, I opposed the Marquis of 
Abercorn, Earl of Harrington and Lord Hawke. And 
said concerning the camp at Bagshot, that I was glad the 
noble Duke of Richmond, who had been so streneous 
for reform, had been appointed to command, to overawe 
the people and destroy their endeavors to obtain a 
reform. I declared I was glad the Duke was to com- 
mand the camp, for if apostacy could justify promotion 
he was the most fit person for the command, Gen. Arnold 
alone excepted. 



46 ARNOLD THE TRAITOR. 

^'\)x. — That's rather strong language, and this Arnold 
is most deuced sensitive, yet everybody knows he is an 
apostate and a traitor. When you debate you go as that 
American fellow Patrick Henry, put it, "for the entire 
hog or none." 

Land. — Well, the Duke got all in a flurry, and said I 
was attacking his private character, and he demanded an 
explanation or a meeting. After the discussion I told 
Richmond that what I said applied solely to his public 
career, and that I meant nothing in respect to his private 
character, whereupon the Duke cooled off, and I supposed 
the matter settled, but I was yet to see the effect of the 
other edge of my sword of sarcasm for Arnold was upon 
my ears for an explanation or a meeting. I told Arnold 
I had no personal hostility and was barely thinking of 
him, using his name in a figurative manner. 

I^ox. — That would not satisfy? 

Laud. — No, he wanted me to retract everything I had 
said. That I could not do. and so I told him. The rest, 
the arrangements for this meeting you are acquainted 
with. Candidly, Mr. Fox, I have no heart for this meeting 
with Gen. Arnold, for I have no quarrel with him. 

I^ox. — Its too late now. Here they come. General 
Arnold, Lord Hawke, his second, and the surgeon. 
How shall it be, twenty paces and both fire upon the 
word.^ 

Laud. — \^Going to extreme 7?.] That satisfies me. 

\Enter Lord Hawke., Arnold and Doctor L. i E. 
Hawke goes down 6\] 

Kox.- — ^Good morning, gentlemen. 

Hawke. — Good morning. S^Looks at zvatch.'] We are 
here on time, 8 o'clock? 

Fox. — Yes, sir. 



ARNOLD THE TRAITOR. 47 



Hazuke. — Let us begin at once. Have you decided the 
distance and manner of firing? 

Fox. — Yes, sir. Twenty paces and fire upon the 
word. Is that satisfactory? 

Hazuke. — \Looks at Arnold., who nods asscnL'] Yes, sir. 

/^ox. — From this point let us measure off ten paces 
each way. [ Thcv do (his and fhcn grt pistols for prin- 
cipal s.'\ 

Hawke. — Mr. Fox you give the word. 

Fox. — All right. Let us understand. I shall say 
"Ready!" "Fire!" At which word you fire. You 
understand? S^Land. and Arnold take position.'] Ready! 
{They take aim.] Fire! \ Arnold fires. Laud, lets arm 
drop zvithont firing.'] 

Fox. — [7(9 Laud.] My Lord, are you wounded? 

Laud. — No. 

Hazuke. — The gentleman's pistol has missed fire. Now 
let him fire. 

Am. — \_Foldino arms.] Yes, fire ! 

Laud. — I decline firing, because I have no enmity to 
Gen. Arnold. 

Hawke. — I suppose then you will not object to saying 
that you did not mean to asperse Gen. Arnold's character? 

Laud. — No. I have already said that I did not mean 
to wound Gen. Arnold's feelings. I will not explain 
further. Gen. Arnold may fire again if he choses. 

Am. and Hawke. — No. 

Am, — No. This is impossible. 

Laud. — I will not retract my words, but am sorry if 
my man felt hurt by them. * 

Am. — This is not a proper apology, such as I would 
make in a similar situation, and I insist upon Lauderdale 
firing. 

Laud. — No, I will not. 



48 ARNOLD THE TRAITOR. 

Am. — Gentlemen, see my situation. I have the mili- 
tary rank of major general. The king vests in my name 
the title to over 13,000 acres of land in Canada, because 
of my great sacrifices for the English nation, yet coming 
to England to live. If I go to the theatre no one comes 
near my box. If my wife goes shopping the clerk points 
scornfully at her — the wife of Benedict Arnold. We go 
to church and are looked on in abhorrence. I engage in 
business, merchants avoid me. Gentlemen these things 
are not easy to be endured. Now a climax of insult by 
Earl of Lauderdale, with whom I am barely acquainted. 
This Earl, a gentleman whose position, rank and character 
is among the highest in England. This man, before the 
most dignified assembly in the world, the House of 
Lords. This man wantonly attacks and insults me. Can 
this be endured? 

[/^ox speaks to Laud. Where upon.'] 

Laud. — [Coming Jorzcard.'] I have no enmity against 
Gen. Arnold. I did not mean to asperse his character or 
wound his feelings, and I am sorry that Gen. Arnold or 
any other person should be hurt at what I have said. 

Am. — Lord Lauderdale I am perfectly satisfied with 
your apology, provided our seconds, as men of honor, 
will say that I ought. 

Ju?x.—-l think it should be deemed perfectly satisfactory. 

Hawkc. — And so do I. 

Laud. — \Adva}icing and holding- out hand.~\ I trust 
this ends the matter which has been so unfortunate for 
us both. 

A?'n. — [ Taking- hand.~] You, my lord, can regret it no 
more than I. 

A/ess. — \Enters R. i L.] A message for Gen. Arnold. 

Af'n. — [Takes note, reads.] Lord Hawke, doctor, let 



ARNOLD THE TRAITOR. 49 

US be going. Gentlemen you may read that. \Hand$ 
note to Fox.^ Good morning. 

\Exeimt Arnold, Haiuke., surgeon, messenger R. i EJX 

Fox. — [^Reading- note. J 

"Portland Place, 8:30 a. m., July i, '89. 

" My Husband : I am ill from anxiety and apprehension. 
By this time the matter is settled. Are you well? Are 
you wounded.^ x\re you dying? The thought distracts 
and crazes me. 

" Your wife, Margaret." 

Laud. — This has been a much more serious affair than 
I had imagined. I deeph' regret this poor woman's solic- 
itude. I shall, at an earl}' moment, beg permission to 
wait upon her in person and express my sorrow and 
make an apology. 

Fox. — And now, Lord Lauderdale, let us be going. 
We will reach London about the time the church bells 
chime, glad that this disagreeable affair is swallowed up 
in the cactences of the sacred bells. \Exeunt L. i E.'\ 
draws off to full stage. 



Scene 3. — Full stage. Plain Chamber. Darkened room. Arnold's 
death scene. London. Old-fashioned bed enclosed by curtains 
Table, chairs, etc. 

\^Discover Mrs. A. and Physician.'] 
Dr. — He seems to be resting quietly now, and I think 
he will recover speedily. His mind having been unset- 
tled by so many depressing circumstances, it must not 
alarm you if he becomes delirious at times. The fever 
is broken, however, and he has a great deal of strength. 
Should he want to get up permit him, only don't let him 
leave the room. 



50 ARNOLD THE TRAITOR. 

Mrs. A. — Shall I continue giving the powders? 

Dr. — O no, its not necessary now. Mrs. Arnold as 
you were up all last night let me suggest that you try 
and get a Httle rest. We don't want you sick, too. The 
nurse will watch and call you if you are needed. 

Mrs. A. — [7b nurse out R. j B.] Martha, you be 
near to see if the general wants anything. \^Exeunt Dr. 
and Mrs. A., C. D., enter nurse R. j E.'] 

Nurse. — Yes, marm. How she has changed. Ah, 
Time, the wonder worker, will keep Gen. Arnold from 
recognizing as it has kept her, and certainly I shall not 
disclose my identity. Strange the government should 
have to employ me. The Arnolds must be poor. It 
looks that way. [Looking round room^ 

Am. — [ Wakings draws curtain aside. Sits on edge of 
bed. Music.~\ Are you a servant? 

Nurse. — I am. Can I do anything? 

Am. — No. I am not sick. But say, its a cruel 
injustice. I am a loyal subject of the king and a tried 
soldier. I offer the king my services as general, but am 
given to understand that no English soldiers will serve 
under me! Bah. My occupations gone. I wanted 
death on the battle field. Say! there's something about 
your eyes. Did I ever see you before? 

Nurse. — O no, sir. We are perfect strangers. 

Am. — Yes, a stranger, but once we were acquainted. 
Men and women serve me that way now. Friendr once, 
now perfect strangers. [Looks closely.'] O, yes. Ha! 
ha! ha! I have a better memory than 3^ou supposed? 
You were the syren who impersonated a goddess. 1 see 
it all; it was only yesterday. You said I was a man of 
destiny. You reasoned to me as did Robinson and 
Clinton and the English Commissioners, and I listened to 
you! You twitted me of the American Congress' injus- 



ARNOLD THE TRAITOR. 



51 



tice and the court-martial. You flattered me. You 
were the dangerous female embodiment of all the treach- 
ery that I committed. O, yes, I followed your advice, 
and your advice would have been better had vour judg- 
ment been good. Only a mistake, but a mistake blacker 
than night and more accursed than hell! 

Mrs. A. — [Hurries in C. D.'\ O general, what is this? 
You are excited and beside 3'ourself. You must lie 
down. 

Am. — [ Taking her face i)i his ha/ids.] There, m}' wife, 
don't worry, I am in my normal condition, but I don't 
like the nurse the king so kindly furnished. Tell her 
\-pointino to nursc\ to go. 

\Nurse exits R. j E.] 

Airs. A. — I will. There is a minister of the Established 
Church here. Will you see him? 

Am. — Why do I want to see a minister of a spiritual 
kingdom now? All my life has been devoted to serving 
Earthly governments. You behold the shell. Look at 
the remains of a soldier, statesman and compatriot of 
Schuyler, Warren and Washington. See what we have 
accomplished. 

Airs. A. — -Don't talk of those disagreeable things. Let 
your mind be composed. 

Am. — Margaret, I will try. Let the preacher come in. 
\Mrs. A. exit C. Z>.] 

Am. — Yes, be composed. But its such a pleasant 
thought to think of my brilliant career, a pauper and an 
outcast. 

\Enter Mrs. A. and preacher C. B.] 

Am. — [Advaneino-,'] Good day, my reverend sir. 

Preach. — Good morning, general, how are you to-day, 
sir? Its fine outside, as you might observe from your 



52 ARNOLD THE TRAITOR. 

window. Of course you must keep the room darkened. 
Pity 3'OU can't get out, though. 

A7'u. — You must have a special mission in visiting me. 
sir.'' 

Preach. — Nothing further than to cheer, if possible. 
I'm told you are melancholy? But, sir, no need or sense 
in it. You know howsoever mistaken buffeted and ill- 
used there is a place of hope and sunshine? 

Am. — I thank you, sir. Your effort is laudable. But 
look, you sir, across a three thousand mile stretch of 
dancing waves there lies a land swathed in golden sun- 
light, and 1 can see the verdure-covered hills, upo^i 
which, in 3^outh, I roamed and studied God. I can see 
the church in which I breathed boyish prayers, the 
graveyard where my sainted parents lie. 

Preach. — 'Tis ever the same, yesterday, to-day, forever 
pardon and immortal youth. But come, general, you 
recline on the bed, you appear weak! 

Ar)i. — By and by. Mrs. Arnold you leave me alone 
with this good man for a few minutes. [J/r5. A. exit C. 
D.\ I am not a great while for this world and I am 
indifferent to life. I am not delirious or excited, but I 
want you to assist me to gratify a whim. 

Preach. — Pardon me, general, but I am of the impres- 
sion that you need entire rest. My presence may be too 
suggestive for your equilibrium, and the matters I repre- 
sent should be thought over in quietude and calmness. 
I don't want to be considered harsh or unsympathetic, 
but I would rather not be implicated in the gratification 
of 3'our whim. 

Am. — Do you know what I want? Will }ou kindly 
go to the bed, and under it is a valise, bring it here? 

Preach. — \^Doing 5C.] It may be of moment after all. 

Am. — Open it. \_Preachcr obcys.'\ Hand me the con- 



ARNOLD THE TRAITOR. 53 

tents, [//a/ids coat to him.'\ Now help me to put on the 
coat — the Continental uniform. 

Preach. — No, general. Pardon me, but 1 positively 
decline. Your thoughts must be diverted from these 
things. \^Takcs hold of Aril., zv/io resists.'] No. Come, 
you must recline ! [ Takes him to bed., goes to C. D. calls^ 
Mrs. Arnold! lEnter Mrs. .1.] Mrs. Arnold I think 
my presence may not be good for the general. I will 
leave the room, but remain near so that I can render anv 
assistance vou may desire. \_Exit C. D.] 

Mrs. A. — \Throzving herself in chair. ~\ Oh, that our 
son were here; or the doctor. I will make the room 
darker yet. [^Closes f)iiiids.'\ That's better. \Room 
dark. Soft music ^ May be the general will sleep now. 

Am. — \From hed.] Margaret, it is dark? 

3Irs. A. — Yes, general. Lie still. 

Am. — \ArisijiQ: Blue light round him. Music 'til 
end.] My dear wife vou will — 

3frs. A. — \ Spring; ing up.] O, general! please don't 
get up. 

Am. — Listen to me. Its a slight matter. [^Displays 
uniform.] Help me on with this coat. 

3frs. A. — Then will you lie quietly? 

Am. — Yes. But look, see that burned place? That 
was from the cannon on Lake Champlain. Those two 
holes there at Quebec, and there the bullets of Stillwater 
pierced. Help me. [^Mrs. A. helps as he tremblingly 
puts on coat ami sinks iido chair.] Now hand me from 
that valise the epaulettes, and the sword knots — attach 
them. [^Mrs. A. does it.] Washington presented those 
to me when I was in the hospital at Albany. Washing- 
ton was good and kind and true. It took this left leg a 
long while to heal. Do you know, wife, a gentleman 
told me the other day that this wounded leg should be 



54 ARNOLD THE TRAITOR. 

severed from my traitorous body and be carried back to 
America and be interred there, as it alone was worthy of 
resting in the land where Washington lies entombed. 

Mrs. A. — \Taking hold of him.'] O please, come and 
la}' down. 

Am. — [^Rising shakes Mrs. A. off.] No, not just yet. 
{Mrs. A. falls into chair and buries Jace in her hands.] 
How beautiful this uniform. \_Goes to valise take old U. 
S. fla^-] How I love this flag, of my country — my 
country! O, no! My country sends to me, poor pauper, 
a nurse to haunt and taunt me. This flag floats over a 
land of freedom, where Washington lies beloved and 
honored. How I envy this wounded leg. Would to 
God my entire body had been wounded to death upon 
Saratoga's plains! Aye, accursed be the body that 
supports these treacherous arms! Accursed these hands 
that executed treason! Accursed the heart that desired 
it! The intellect that devised it! O God, I am withered 
by the curse of America's freemen. I am forsaken and 
abhored by all the world! [Blue light around him. Sinks 
to Jloor with fixed eyes and trembling muscles. Writhes. 
Wierd music. Mrs. A. springs up in terror ., runs to C. 
D. and cries for help. Comes back to Am. Hair dishev- 
eled. Wild. Shakes him.] 

Mrs. A. — O God, his eyes are glassy and tixed. [ Tears 
open his shirt. Puts ear to breast. Springs to her feet. 
Staggers, chokes, and gasps out] Dead! dead! [J^alls 
heavily.] 

[ Very dark stage. Wierd music] 

CURTAIN FALLS. 



